France and United Kingdom are set to lead a high level meeting involving about 40 countries aimed at addressing security concerns in the Strait of Hormuz and planning a possible post conflict mission to safeguard maritime navigation.
The talks come amid escalating tensions in the strategic waterway, which Iran has largely closed to foreign vessels following the outbreak of air strikes linked to the United States and Israel. The situation has further intensified after the United States imposed a blockade on ships entering or leaving Iranian ports.
US President Donald Trump has called on allied nations to support the enforcement of the blockade, criticising partners in NATO for their reluctance to participate. However, European countries have resisted direct involvement, warning that such actions could escalate the conflict.
Instead, Britain, France and their allies have expressed readiness to support efforts to secure the Strait of Hormuz once hostilities ease or a ceasefire is achieved. Diplomatic sources indicated that both the United States and Iran are currently excluded from the planned mission, although their involvement may become necessary at a later stage.
The meeting is expected to reaffirm global commitment to freedom of navigation and adherence to international law. It will also address the economic impact of the crisis, particularly the disruption to global shipping and the plight of thousands of seafarers stranded in the region.
Participants are also set to discuss the framework for a defensive multinational military mission that could be deployed when conditions permit. The proposed operation may include intelligence sharing, mine clearance efforts, and coordinated naval escorts to ensure the safe movement of vessels.
Key global leaders, including Emmanuel Macron, Keir Starmer, Friedrich Merz and Giorgia Meloni, are expected to attend the meeting in Paris, while other representatives from Europe, Asia and the Middle East will join virtually.
A joint statement is anticipated at the end of the discussions, outlining the next steps for the proposed mission. However, officials noted that the plan could change depending on how quickly normal shipping operations resume in the region.
Overall, the initiative reflects growing international concern over the stability of global trade routes and the need for coordinated action to protect critical maritime infrastructure.
